Ships of the line had one main disadvantage: during a swell with heavy waves they had to close their lower gunports or be at severe risk of flooding the ship. Likewise, they had to perform shallower turns in case the wash of turning caused similar flooding. Any trained sea captain would know the risk, and a cunning captain would know to use it against the bigger ship.
THE IRISH EXPEDITION
In 1796, the French Directory drew up plans to assist Irish rebels by sending a 15,000-strong expeditionary force. However, delays meant the planned August deadline slipped
